Showing posts with label beauty. Show all posts
Showing posts with label beauty. Show all posts

July 13, 2020

Staying Hydrated While Finding Balance with Nestlé Pure Life+

This post is sponsored by Nestlé® Pure Life®+ but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.





Finding balance in life can be a struggle at times, especially during this crazy time in our lives.




Whether we are trying to work from home just the right amount or adjusting back to life in the office again, while trying to devote the correct amount of time to our family, and searching for a moment of relaxation, while also occasionally reminding ourselves not to overindulge, and sometimes even just searching for motivation, etc... most of us are striving to live balanced lives in one way or another, whilealso searching for ways to help us live that ideal life.


While I don't have it all figured out and I'm also still seeking balance in many aspects of my life, I have come to realize a few things that are truly important in my life and that help me live my most balanced life and I figured I'd share them with you today:



We'll start with something simple, but so important. I personally know that I never get enough water. I mean, I only drink water (for the most part) but not always the "necessary" amount that I need so it's something I'm really working on. Making sure my body is hydrated is important to me for so many reasons, I mean, we are mainly made up of water so making sure our body has enough of it is VITAL. Some days are easier than others to get enoughin and most definitely some water is better than others, and that's why I started sipping on these amazing Nestlé® Pure Life®+ water beverages-I think they are the best drinks


These refreshing little bottles have unique minerals to help you get throughthe day and they taste pretty amazing too. With specific minerals and tasty flavor, I couldn't ask for more!

The best part is there's a Nestlé Pure Life+ made to meet your every need:



  • You can get a little pick me up with the +revive with Magnesium. It is lemon flavered and helps with the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.


  • The Nestlé Pure Life+ active has potassium, with a delicious orange flavor, that helps with normal muscle function. This is my favorite go to drink whenever I'm doing a little backyard "hot yoga". I mean, you can't beat a little cold water during a good stretch!

  • Feeling a little under the weather? Try Nestlé Pure Life+ protect, which comes with zinc-something we all could use to help maintain normal immune systemfunctioning and the blackberry flavor is pretty delicious too!

Not only are these beverages refreshing and delicious, I love that I'm able to stock up on all the delicious Nestlé Pure Life+ my heart desires while browsing Walmart.com. So go ahead and clickadd to carton a pack of Nestlé Pure Life+ while you are checking out with your summer essentials!



If you're wanting to try just one flavor first, I personally found an adoration for the Lemon flavor... but honestly, they all are amazing and have unique minerals for normal body functioning and each flavor is extra refreshing in it's own way, so you can't go wrong! Go ahead, add to your cart, and try Nestlé Pure Life+ today!



Beyond constantly trying to stay hydrated, I'm also constantly reminding myself that I need to try to stay present to truly find balance in my life. Playing with my daughter, on her level, and actually engaging is so important right now, to both of us. If you're a parent, I'm sure you understand how important it is to give our kiddos our undivided attention right now, more than ever. The time spent truly "playing" with our kids isn't just for fun, it helps them learn, cope, and feel at peace... and frankly, it helps me do the same.


Today we did a quick little project and I figured I'd share our results. These fun "paintings" were so easy to make and we had a blast making them! I'll be sharing the directions on how we made them tomorrow.


Another way I'm trying to achieve balance in my lifeis by intentionally practicing self-care. I've not always been the nicest to myself, I've been known to bash my looks, point out my flaws, and frankly, I've neglected what my body needs at times. But I feel like I've matured, I'm done with bashing this body, I'm taking the necessary actions to make sure I feel loved and pampered. I'm making sure I take the time to read, do yoga, design, and create, and it feels so good. I'm also finding joy in doing my makeup and just overall feeling more "me" again. It may sound simple, but this step is truly helping me find an inner balance I haven't felt in a long time.



So tell me how do you try and find balance in your life? I'd love to hear in the comments below!

July 19, 2019

My Curly Girl Secret and How I'm Healing my Hair with Giovanni!

This post is sponsored by Giovanni, regardless all opinions expressed below are my own.


https://ooh.li/960b77d

Having curly hair has always been a struggle for me. I'm constantly fighting the frizz and trying to tame the 'fro or straightening it and then watching humidity change that back into some funky frizzy mess. I felt like I had tried everything, I started resorting to pony tails ALL THE TIME because I've never really found something that makes me say 'OH, wow' about my natural hair texture -- until now, that is.

https://ooh.li/960b77d


I recently started using Giovanni and the products I've added into my curl routine are a legit GAME CHANGER. It's like I brought some of the salon magic hairstylist always seem to have home with me, except these aren't just available from salons - they're for everyone and available at most health food stores (and some grocers too).

Why health food stores for hair products? Well, Giovanni is not just a salon-quality brand, it's an "eco-chic", vegan-friendly and cruelty-free company as well. They are the epitome of what every hair company should strive to be. Great smelling, effective, and more natural than anything else I've ever used. All of their products are made containing no harsh chemicals or toxic ingredients and they've never tested on animals - so they're pretty much the coolest, in that sense. Speaking of being cool, I'm obsessed with the fact that the whole line seems to be tailored to fit my hairstyle, yet it's so versatile and can be used for so many hair types and textures.

https://ooh.li/960b77d

That's the thing though, they've got this "hair thang" figured out. Not surprisingly though, since Giovanni has been bridging the gap between natural and salon quality since 1979 and they've developed a trusted formula that is already transforming my hair texture in just a few washes!

How is that even possible?

https://ooh.li/960b77d


The Smooth as Silk Deep Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner I was sent have a super luxurious lather to them that soothes my dry (overly processed from all of the dying) hair, while gently cleansing to help keep the hair smooth and calm. Being free of lauryl and laureth sulfate, parabens, and other harsh chemicals makes my hair so happy.

https://ooh.li/960b77d

The Giovanni L.A. Hold Styling Gel grabs onto style and holds on tight with extreme hold. It's the strongest gel they offer, but doesn't leave your hair feeling "crispy" like other gels. It helps control frizz and increase shine with surface enhancers, while again still being cruelty-free.

https://ooh.li/960b77d


The The Frizz Be Gone Hair Serum is what I'm really bragging about today, though. This liquid style enhancer is what frizzy haired girls like me are dying to find. It creates the perfect sealant, helping to control frizz, add shine, infuse with conditioners, and lock in hair color. Living in Florida, you know it's humid and this heavy-duty, yet light-weight in texuture, hair serum is the answer to the muggy, afro-puff-inducing- humidity that we all hate dealing with. Not only does it make my hair less wild, it helps smooth and detangle while stopping breakage AND provides heat protection while sealing in color!

https://ooh.li/960b77d

Lastly, The Giovanni Direct Leave-In Weightless Moisture Conditioner restores strength and luster for abused hair, while moisturizing and building body. The best part is, it helps with detangling and makes for easy styling - that's a serious win in my book and my curls agree.


While my hair is still "healing" from all of the damage I've done to it over the years, I'm already seeing my curls bounce back and the texture feels so much less brittle and overworked. If you're struggling with hair insecurities, I'm going to tell you right now - Giovanni is the only brand you can trust. I haven't found any other brand that beats the salon quality and performance of Giovanni hair products. Their Eco Chic line is truly the best out there and they make products for each and every hair type! Straight, wavy, curly, or coily - be prepared to see your hair at it's healthiest. Check out the website to find which line will work best for you!

November 25, 2018

The BEST Sale EVER from Silk'n & What Every Mom Wants for Christmas in 2018!

This post is sponsored by Silk'n, regardless all opinions expressed below are completely my own.



Hey fellow shopaholics and beauty product lovers, just popping in to remind you about the Silk'n sale today! They are having their BEST Black Friday Sale EVER - with up to 50% off all devices! Some of the devices they are offering up at steep discounts have actually never been discounted before - that means you have first dibs on some of the best deals!

http://gofyi.ly/?5F38AC7B



I was lucky enough to be sent one of the newest Silk'n devices, the Titan. This revolutionary at-home anti-aging device!

This little device is what every mama is asking for this Christmas and something we ALL want under the tree this year! Why exactly? Well, it offers salon quality results in the prviacy of your own home with no "healing" time. That means those pesky forehead wrinkles I've been battling for the last few years are less noticable and they'll continue to disappear instead of get worse... as well as the annoying sun spots this Florida sun has left me with.

Wondering how this little guy works? Well, most users report seeing results in 8-10 weeks, with noticeably reduced wrinkles and a lift in facial contours! The Titan was made for use on your neck and face and it actually goes deep and repairs collagen and elastin fibers from the inside out.

https://silkn.com/



So what are you waiting for? We're not getting any younger, but you can reverse signs of aging with this baby - so it's a MUST HAVE! Grab yours here before the sale ends TONIGHT!

July 6, 2018

4 Mom Hacks to Help You Live Your Best Life



This post is sponsored by Degree Women but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.

https://ooh.li/5617105


So, let's be frank, embracing being nearly 30 with my toddler in tow has been a real balancing act. I'm constantly debating with myself if heels are ever really worth the effort or if pants are really necessary at all times... I wear shirts that are covered in slime from breakfast covered hands giving me a hug and I often times sport a mom bun as my formal updo when leaving the house.


https://ooh.li/7c99371

It's not like I don't love this stage of life, because I do. But I'm also dealing with hair in unwanted places, a mom pooch that I can't seem to get rid of no matter how much kale I eat, I get drenched in sweat every time I walk outside like I'm having a hot flash, and fly away "baby hairs" are pretty much all that's left of my once full head of hair. These are the parts of motherhood that I didn't necessarily think about when I agreed to this whole parenting thing... I feel like I got conned.

https://ooh.li/7c99371


Obviously I'm being facetious, being a mom is my greatest joy and I wouldn't change a thing... even all of these baby hairs and these hot flashes are worth it when I feel my baby girl give me a hug or say "mama, wuv ya". That being said, I'm gonna dish out four of my "Mom Life" hacks to hopefully help you live your best life -

Mom Hack 1: Let's address how this all began, with me asking if heels are worth the effort and if pants are really necessary... and while the jury is still out on the latter, the former proves to be a yes. Heels are always worth the effort, but my suggestion for those mamas that are also uncoordinated (like myself) is to check out wedges. They provide just enough extra support to make walking in them a breeze... and they are still just as cute as heels!

Mom Hack 2: Now, let's chat about that sweaty, hot flash feeling that I mentioned. I'm fairly certain it's just a mixture of being older and this dang Florida heat but I'm hotter than a you know what in church nearly every time I leave the house. Instead of worrying about how I smell or if I've smeared deodorant on my favorite dress, I just grab for Degree’s UltraClear Black+White Dry Spray Deodorant.


https://ooh.li/7c99371




Not only does Degree UltraClear Black + White Spray go on clear and leave me smelling fresh for 48 hours, it protects my clothing against yellow stains or the dreaded white marks that I only seem to get when I'm wearing black and in a hurry. It also lets out an extra burst of freshness when I need it, which is pretty much every single minute of the day in Florida.

Want to try Degree UltraClear Black + White? Check out more about the product and score a discount here.


Mom Hack 3: My next mom hack is all about you. It's time to find something you like to do... and do it. I know it sounds simple, but if you're a devoted mother like myself, you know it's often difficult to peel yourself away from Doc McStuffins imagination play with your toddler and go work on something you like doing instead... but I promise you, it's good for both of you to play.

I'm not saying you should take up bar hopping or spend hours away from your children, I'm just simply suggesting knitting while Judy plays with her Barbies or spending a few minutes each day learning how to edit photos in Lightroom while Joey plays with his toy cars. It's really important to find something you love doing and do it - that time spent getting creative or learning a new task is rejuvenating and your little one will benefit from it as well.


https://ooh.li/7c99371

Mom Hack 4: My last mom hack is one I've definitely taken to heart... and that is - photograph it all. They aren't kidding with you when they tell ya life flashes by in the blink of an eye. I swear, some days it feels like we were just discharged from the hospital and then I look at my almost two year old and wonder where the time went. Luckily I've taken her photo almost daily, with at least my cell phone camera, and uploaded all those memories to an external hard drive to make sure I never lose them.

I can't preserve time, but I can help bottle up a tiny bit of the memories and share them with her in the future and I fully intend to photography her daily until she refuses to let me do so.

So, tell me, do you have any "mom hacks" that I need to hear? I'm always looking for ways to make life easier, especially now that I'm hitting my dirty thirties. Haha. So dish out some ways you've found to make this motherhood thing a little easier in the comments below.

June 9, 2018

How I get my EASY beachy look with Dove!

This post is sponsored by Dove Hair Care but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.


https://ooh.li/c5566fa



Having naturally wild curly hair, I've had to learn to pick my battles.  Some days, it's just not worth all the effort of blowdrying and styling the curl out... especially living in Florida. It's been a lifetime long battle of treatments, products, and gizmos to try and tame the frizz and keep it looking polished.

But, lately, I've been embracing the curl... there's just something so beautiful to simplicity... So I've been using less products and gadgets to try and tame my mane... and honestly, it's looking healthier  than normal thanks to Dov.

Wondering how I achieve my easy, beachy hair?


https://ooh.li/c5566fa


It's simple... I wash with Dove Thickening Ritual Shampoo and Conditioner, then I just towel dry, brush with my fingers, and apply a little leave in conditioner... Once it's almost dry, I spray a smidge of Dove Compressed Flexible Hold Hairspray in to help with the frizz and then I let it go.
My hair NEEDED some TLC after years of mistreating it, so finding this way to hydrate and let my hair rest, while also not having to deal with a handful of products is a huge bonus



Are you a fellow curly girly? Check out Dove.... and see how this line can help you restore and beautify your mane. 

May 16, 2017

Refresh Your Complexion & Master The Perfect Summer Glow

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser.
All opinions are mine alone. #BlueLizardSummer #CollectiveBias

I recently shared a post about 10 things no one tells you about having a baby and one thing I mentioned is how much your skin changes and how I had to alter my skin care routine to help deal with all of those changes. With all the hormones raging through your body to help that little miracle grow, it's no wonder your skin goes on the fritz and starts doing some strange things - it's a bit like adolescence, except you're growing a perfect little tiny human instead of growing up yourself.

http://cbi.as/82kls


With that said, I found that during pregnancy and even now (8 months post-pregnancy), my skin care routine gives me the glow I always longed for. That's right, I'm fairly convinced I've mastered the routine to get the Perfect Summer Glow, even if you have sensitive skin... and lucky for you, I'm sharing it with you today!


1. Exfoliate - To start, you'll want to make sure you scrub your skin well in a bath with a body wash made for sensitive skin and use a poof to make sure you really are able to exfoliate and cleanse the skin.

March 8, 2017

The BIG SECRET to Keeping Your Skin Hydrated All Year Long!




Living in the Sunshine State has its perks, there's no doubt about that. One perk is the sun and all the gorgeous weather, but the downside of all this Vitamin D is it makes my skin super dry if I don't keep it hydrated. That's where Curél® Hydra Therapy Wet Skin Moisturizer comes into the picture.

Whether you live by the sun or spend time in the cold, Curél® is the answer to your dry skin blues. Want proof? Lucky for you, Curél® and a bunch of bloggers (including myself) teamed up to apply Curél® Hydra Therapy daily and officially reveal to you how you can keep your skin hydrated... all year long!

Believe it or not, applying Curél® Hydra Therapy after my shower, once a day, really does make my skin softer and no joke: I noticed a difference after just one use. It’s a little different than my usual moisturizer. I applied this right after I got out of the bath, before toweling off. Why after the shower though? After showering, your pores are open, providing an easy pathway for moisture to absorb into your skin! There isn’t even a need to rub the moisturizer in, just towel off and go about your day. Curél® Hydra Therapy Wet Skin Moisturizer with Advanced Ceramide Complex penetrates deeply into the skin's surface at this point bringing moisture to the source of dryness. It absorbs immediately and with daily use will end your dry skin! I’ve found that the dry, rough patches I had before now look much smoother, and my skin overall appears more hydrated and well nourished. I’m super happy with it!




Not only will Curél® Hydra Therapy hydrate your skin, this moisturizer is immediately absorbed - leaving no greasiness! Plus it's fragrance free and dermatologist recommended, so you don't have to worry about it irritating your skin, even if you’re like me and you have super sensitive skin!
With all of that said, I think I'm ready to reveal the big secret Curél®, 39 other bloggers and I have been working on together. Check out this "End of Dry Skin" graphic, it really will be the beginning of so much
more for you:



Speaking of the beginning of something much more, I think we need to talk about something important! I'm giving away $100 to ONE lucky commenter! So tell me, what's your favorite part of the "End of Dry Skin" graphic...? Will you start adding Curél® Hydra Therapy Wet Skin Moisturizer into your shower routine? I'd love to hear what you think in the comments below!
Entry Instructions:
No duplicate comments.
You may receive (2) total entries by selecting from the following entry methods:
1. Leave a comment in response to the sweepstakes prompt on this post
2. Tweet (public message) about this promotion; including exactly the following unique term in your tweet message: “#SweepstakesEntry”; and leave the URL to that tweet in a comment on this post
3. Blog about this promotion, including a disclosure that you are receiving a sweepstakes entry in exchange for writing the blog post, and leave the URL to that post in a comment on this post
This giveaway is open to US Residents age 18 or older (or nineteen (19) years of age or older in Alabama and Nebraska). Winners will be selected via random draw, and will be notified by e-mail. The notification email will come directly from BlogHer via the sweeps@blogher email address. You will have 2 business days to respond; otherwise a new winner will be selected.
The Official Rules are available here.
This sweepstakes runs from 3/2-3/31
Be sure to visit the brand page on BlogHer.com where you can read other bloggers’ posts!

February 27, 2017

The Hair Dryer Has Been Reinvented and YOU Will Love It!


The reviewer has been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received the product/service at a reduced price or for free. 

A hair dryer is just a hair dryer, or so you thought. I felt the same way, until I had this powerful little hair tool in my hand. The game has changed, styling your hair just got a little easier, and we have Dyson to thank. Find out more on the blog...

A hair dryer is just a hair dryer, or so you thought. I felt the same way, until I had this powerful little hair tool in my hand. The game has changed, styling your hair just got a little easier, and we have Dyson to thank.

A hair dryer is just a hair dryer, or so you thought. I felt the same way, until I had this powerful little hair tool in my hand. The game has changed, styling your hair just got a little easier, and we have Dyson to thank. Find out more on the blog...

The Dyson Supersonic hair dryer has reinvented the standard hair dryer with a unique digital motor for fast and balanced drying. It even has a thermistor that helps protect your hair from heat damage and a monitor that checks the temperature every 20 seconds, keeping your hair safe and beautiful! Plus, this beauty has three magnetic styling attachments- making it easier to style every type of hair. This is the hair dryer reinvented and it's definitely my new favorite beauty accessory.

A hair dryer is just a hair dryer, or so you thought. I felt the same way, until I had this powerful little hair tool in my hand. The game has changed, styling your hair just got a little easier, and we have Dyson to thank. Find out more on the blog...

As a new mom, just gaining a second of freedom here or there while my baby plays with a toy, I can say I didn't use to have the time to devote to styling my hair perfectly every morning. Now with my Dyson Supersonic hair dryer and it's ultra-fast drying capabilities, I'm ready to go when Delainey is ready to play.

A hair dryer is just a hair dryer, or so you thought. I felt the same way, until I had this powerful little hair tool in my hand. The game has changed, styling your hair just got a little easier, and we have Dyson to thank. Find out more on the blog...

Another reason this dryer is mama friendly? It's acoustically tuned. While that sounds like it may play music well, that isn't the case. The powerful motor is actually tuned to produce one inaudible frequency and it's enveloped by a vibration reduction system, making this dryer quiet enough to not wake the baby when you just need to feel clean after a long day. I love the fact that I'm able to use this dryer without having to worry about waking the tiny little monster--that makes getting ready for our first date night out since having her a more reasonable idea.

A hair dryer is just a hair dryer, or so you thought. I felt the same way, until I had this powerful little hair tool in my hand. The game has changed, styling your hair just got a little easier, and we have Dyson to thank. Find out more on the blog...

Whether your using the highest or lowest of the three speeds this hair dryer offers or boosting it to the highest of the four heat levels, you'll really appreciate how this dryer feels like it was made for you... helping to shape your hair into the perfect style, quickly and reliably. I know I love my new Dyson Supersonic hair dryer and I think you will too.




October 2, 2016

Happiness Delivered: My POPSUGAR Must Have Box for September

Thanks to PopSugar for sending this box full of items I "must have", regardless all opinions expressed below are completely my own.
Check out what happiness was delivered to my front door from POPSUGAR and get yourself a coupon for the box subscription! #MustHaveBox

If you're a fan of subscription boxes, then the PopSugar Must Haves box is one you have to try! When you sign up for a subscription you sign yourself up to essentially receive a present from yourself in the mail, each month... with two different options, a subscription and a mini subscription!  It's the best way to get to know innovative brands and try out full-sized items for yourself and your home.

Check out what happiness was delivered to my front door from POPSUGAR and get yourself a coupon for the box subscription! #MustHaveBox

While I'm a few days late posting, I can't help but brag about what arrived in my Must Haves box in September.

Check out what happiness was delivered to my front door from POPSUGAR and get yourself a coupon for the box subscription! #MustHaveBox

We'll start with the cutest little hat on the block. This fashion must have from Jack + Lucy is so-in-right-now I can't get enough of it. If you want to add a bit of a chic vibe to your style, this little beauty is the best way to do so. Add to any fall outfit and your set for the day, no hairstyle or makeup required... yes please!

Check out what happiness was delivered to my front door from POPSUGAR and get yourself a coupon for the box subscription! #MustHaveBox

Speaking of hairstyles, if you've been struggling to get your hair to cooperate then the beauty must have is just what you need! Whether you blow dry, curl, flat iron, apply a handful of products, or all of the above, your hair likely goes through a lot - instead of adding more distress to try and repair the problem, send your hair to the "spa" instead. The Briogeo Don't Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask is the perfect way to treat your hair to what it really needs! It does the job in minutes and leaves your hair feeling silky and beautiful.

Check out what happiness was delivered to my front door from POPSUGAR and get yourself a coupon for the box subscription! #MustHaveBox

Feeling beautiful doesn't just start with your hair though, a little bit of lip gloss can make a girl glow... if it's the right gloss, that is! Another beauty must have from this box is Smith & Cult's Lip Lacquer in The Warning. It's an alarming color and perfect for a pop of color this fall! Plus, it's a paraben free formula, which helps extend the wear, whether it's worn with lipstick or by itself. If you're looking for a gloss that really helps make your beauty shine, The Warning may be the perfect option!

Check out what happiness was delivered to my front door from POPSUGAR and get yourself a coupon for the box subscription! #MustHaveBox

The next item in the box doesn't come with a warning but it does involve the E.R. The NCLA MANI-ER Tool kit is so handy, literally! In this tiny little pouch, you have everything you need to make touch ups and polish your mani, especially in an emergency situation.

Check out what happiness was delivered to my front door from POPSUGAR and get yourself a coupon for the box subscription! #MustHaveBox

Another item I think they included in the home must haves that may come in handy in an emergency outside the home is the Flint Lint Roller! It's conveniently sized to fit practically anywhere and winds up and down for use - keeping you dog fur and lint free in seconds flat!

Check out what happiness was delivered to my front door from POPSUGAR and get yourself a coupon for the box subscription! #MustHaveBox

The last item in the box is maybe my favorite. Since hubby is gluten-free I always get excited when I see yummy snacks that tote this designation and The Gluten Free Bites in Dark Chocolate Coconut are some of my new favorite snacks in our house. With just the right amount of coconut and dark chocolate to leave me craving another one, I love popping these little guys in my mouth to treat myself after a long day.

Check out what happiness was delivered to my front door from POPSUGAR and get yourself a coupon for the box subscription! #MustHaveBox

So there you have it, my most recent Must Haves box was amazing... I think we all can agree! Are you a Must Haves subscriber? Click here and order your own box (don't forget to use the code SHOP5, which never expires, to get $5 off your first box)! Also, if you feel like chatting, tell me about one item you hope arrives in your box when you sign up!

August 12, 2016

Do Something: Help Others with the Power to the Period Donation Drive

Thanks to U by Kotex for sponsoring today's discussion, regardless all opinions expressed below are completely my own.



http://www.fyitrack.com/?7A4E3F61

Let me start out by saying I am so lucky I've been blessed during my lifetime... I've never really had to hurt for any necessity and I've always had a nice roof over my head. While I've always had enough, even more than enough at times, I've been around a few people that have longed for necessities. While I know I can't help every single needy person all by myself, I try to do my best to help those connected to me in some way and so does my family. While I have a handful of stories I could share about helping those in need, I'm not going to do that today... this post isn't about bragging, I'm sharing this to bring light to a subject that's tough to talk about.

http://www.fyitrack.com/?7A4E3F61

I can remember one time when I was in high school, a friend of my mother's stopped by and cried on our couch after losing her job. She was in a bad spot in her life and it was really no fault of her own. She couldn't afford her rent, she was scraping pennies together to buy food, she had a car but it was running on fumes, and embarrassingly, it was "that time of the month" and she had no feminine products and no money to go buy any. I didn't know her too incredibly well, she worked with my mom in the past and I had only met her a few times, but I did know she definitely wasn't the type to beg. She honestly needed help, she came over just to talk and then out of desperation she spilled her soul. Luckily, she felt comfortable enough to share her entire story with us and we were able to lend her a helping hand.

http://www.fyitrack.com/?7A4E3F61

The thing is, we weren't necessarily well off at that point in my life... Don't get me wrong, we had more than enough though and that's why my mom, being the caring individual she is, handed her some money and some feminine products. The gesture was small, in comparison to the grand scheme of things, but it meant a lot to her friend and while I'm not sure where she ended up in life, I still think about that day on occasion. All of us sitting there in my living room, tears streaming down her face, my mom and I wanting to do everything we could to help her. It was right then the reality of being an adult set in, in some ways. I had always known life wasn't rainbows and butterflies, but seeing someone need something that I'd always taken for granted, someone that I knew directly, that made me realize that I could and should do more with my life. I was born blessed, I should help others feel blessed whenever the opportunity presents itself. It's a lesson I'll never forget and one that my mom may not even remember teaching me... but it was life changing.

http://www.fyitrack.com/?7A4E3F61

That's why I want to share more about the "Power to the Period drive"! While this movement wasn't around back when my mom's friend was in need, it is now and it's something every woman should know about. Power to the Period is the first-ever national period product drive and the second installment of U by Kotex's Period Projects - a unique and inspiring series of projects, each inspired and led by real women who share the brand's passion for creating change.

http://www.fyitrack.com/?7A4E3F61


While my mom's friend was just one woman in our community, it's obvious when I reflect back on that day that she was likely one of many that needed help being able to afford necessities like feminine products. To be exact, there are 3.5 million Americans who experience homelessness each year, these people have limited access to and few places to turn for basic human needs like toiletries.

http://www.fyitrack.com/?7A4E3F61

U by Kotex is doing something to change that, inspired by a tweet sent by Holly Sanchez, they have partnered with DoSomething.org to encourage people to buy and donate an extra pack of period products to homeless shelters. This simple act of kindness is one that could change a woman's life, I've witnessed it myself. Together, as women, we can change the way we think about, talk about, and act towards the needs of homeless and needy people in our communities. The best part is, it's actually an easy task - just buy an extra pack of pads or tampons on each trip you make to the store, then make a monthly donation to a local shelter. You could change someone's life by spending a few extra dollars each time you make a Target run or a stop at Walmart... it's that easy. If you have the time maybe you could even start a Power to the Period donation drive in your area from now through September 30 and donate everything you collect to a shelter in need! Visit UbyKotex.com, DoSomething.org/Period or text PERIOD to 38383 to learn more about how you can get involved.
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Tell me, have you ever helped someone truly in need of something simple like toiletries or food? While it's a small act for you, it means a lot to those in need... I'd love to hear all about your experience in the comments below.